Looking for the 10 best Ninja Foodi recipes? You're in for a treat! From creamy macaroni and cheese that'll make your taste buds dance to crispy chicken wings that cook up in 30 minutes, the Ninja Foodi has you covered. Try hearty beef stew or quick garlic butter shrimp for a dinner win! Don't skip the savory chili or baked ziti – they're perfect for cozy nights. Want something sweet? Delicious banana bread is just a few steps away. Each recipe is quick and easy, so get ready to impress everyone with your Ninja Foodi magic and discover more hidden gems!
Main Points
- Creamy Macaroni and Cheese offers quick preparation with customizable proteins or vegetables, featuring sharp cheddar and Gruyere for rich flavor.
- Tender Beef Stew utilizes pressure cooking for tender meat and vibrant vegetables, enhanced with optional red wine or bay leaf.
- Crispy Chicken Wings combine pressure cooking and air frying for crispy results, with flavor enhanced by marinating and choice of sauces.
- Hearty Chicken Curry blends spices and coconut milk, allowing personalization of spice levels while incorporating chicken and mixed vegetables.
- Easy Pulled Pork ensures tender meat through pressure cooking, ideal for sandwiches or meal prep, and features a crispy exterior from air crisping.
Creamy Macaroni and Cheese
Creamy macaroni and cheese is a beloved comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Using the Ninja Foodi, this recipe transforms the traditional dish into a quick and easy masterpiece that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. The pressure cooking function not only saves time but also guarantees that the pasta is perfectly cooked and absorbs all the delicious flavors from the cheeses.
This recipe features a delightful combination of sharp cheddar and nutty Gruyere, creating a rich and cheesy sauce that envelops the macaroni. The sauté function allows for even melting of the cheeses, enhancing the creamy texture of the dish. Whether enjoyed on its own or as a side to your favorite protein, this macaroni and cheese is sure to delight family and friends alike.
Feel free to customize the dish by adding your choice of vegetables or proteins to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: cooked chicken, bacon, or vegetables (like spinach)
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by adding the elbow macaroni and broth to the Ninja Foodi pot. Secure the lid and set to high pressure for 4 minutes.
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully release the pressure and remove the lid. Set the Ninja Foodi to the sauté function and add the butter, heavy cream, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until the butter melts and the mixture is well combined.
Gradually add the shredded cheddar and Gruyere cheese, stirring constantly until the cheeses have melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and if desired, mix in any proteins or vegetables.
Extra Tips:
For the best results, make sure to shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties, as the added anti-caking agents in store-bought shredded cheese can prevent smooth melting.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the amount of broth slightly or add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water during the sauté phase. Additionally, this dish reheats beautifully; just add a splash of milk or cream when warming leftovers to restore its creamy consistency.
Enjoy your homemade creamy macaroni and cheese!
Tender Beef Stew
Tender Beef Stew
Cooking a hearty beef stew in the Ninja Foodi is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The pressure cooking feature considerably reduces cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you're craving something delicious without the wait.
By utilizing the sauté function before pressure cooking, you can build layers of flavor that enhance your stew from simple to spectacular. This recipe is designed to yield tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, savory broth.
The sealed environment of the Ninja Foodi locks in moisture and nutrients, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. With just a few easy steps, you'll have a nourishing stew that warms both the body and soul.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
Begin by setting the Ninja Foodi to the sauté function. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat up.
Once hot, add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides, approximately 5-7 minutes. Incorporate the onions and garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent.
Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper, ensuring everything is well combined. Next, add the carrots and potatoes, followed by the beef broth.
Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 35-45 minutes, depending on the cut of meat used. Once finished, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before carefully switching the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.
Extra Tips
For an even richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a bay leaf during the pressure cooking process.
If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, adding it to the stew after pressure cooking and simmering it on the sauté function until thickened.
Additionally, feel free to customize the vegetables according to your preference or what you have on hand—mushrooms, peas, or green beans can all be great additions. Enjoy your comforting beef stew!
Crispy Chicken Wings
Crispy Chicken Wings
If you're looking for a quick and delicious meal that satisfies your craving for crispy chicken wings, the Ninja Foodi is your best friend. With its air frying function, you can achieve perfectly cooked wings in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to option for weeknight dinners or impromptu gatherings.
The combination of pressure cooking and air frying guarantees that your wings aren't only crispy on the outside but also tender and juicy on the inside.
To boost the flavor of your chicken wings, consider marinating them prior to cooking. This not only improves the taste but also allows for a variety of flavor profiles to suit your preference.
After cooking, feel free to toss the wings in your favorite sauces, whether it be classic buffalo, tangy barbecue, or a sweet and spicy glaze. The versatility of the Ninja Foodi allows you to customize your wings for every occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of chicken wings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: your choice of sauce for tossing post-cooking
Cooking Instructions
Start by preheating your Ninja Foodi on the air fryer setting at 400°F (200°C).
While it heats up, in a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken wings with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper, making sure that the wings are well-coated.
Once the air fryer is preheated, arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to guarantee even cooking and crispiness.
Extra Tips
For the crispiest wings, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; it's better to cook in batches if necessary.
If you like your wings extra crispy, you can add an additional 5 minutes to the cooking time.
Remember to allow the wings to rest for a few minutes after cooking before tossing them in sauce to make sure they maintain their crispiness.
Enjoy experimenting with different marinades and sauces to find your perfect wing combination!
Flavorful Vegetable Medley
Flavorful Vegetable Medley
The flavorful vegetable medley is a vibrant and nutritious dish that can effortlessly boost any meal. Using the Ninja Foodi, you can take advantage of its steam and sauté functions to prepare a delightful mix of vegetables that not only retain their nutrients but also burst with color.
This medley is perfect for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet, as it allows you to experiment with seasonal produce and customize flavors to suit your palate.
In this recipe, we'll combine classic vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and broccoli. By seasoning them with olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs, you can create a delicious side dish that complements a variety of main courses.
Additionally, if you prefer a crispy texture, the air fryer function of the Ninja Foodi can give your medley that perfect crunch, guaranteeing a delightful contrast to the tender vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
Start by selecting the sauté function on your Ninja Foodi and heat the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Then, toss in the chopped bell pepper, zucchini, carrots, and broccoli. Sauté the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
After that, add a splash of water to the pot, close the lid, and switch to the steam function. Cook under pressure for 5 minutes and then perform a quick release.
If you desire a crispy finish, you can transfer the vegetables to the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for an additional 5-7 minutes until they reach your desired level of crispiness.
Extra Tips:
Feel free to customize this vegetable medley based on what you have on hand or what's in season. Seasonal vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or cherry tomatoes can be fantastic additions.
Additionally, consider experimenting with different herbs and spices to improve the flavor profile. For a kick of heat, add some red pepper flakes or for a touch of sweetness, toss in some corn or peas.
Always remember to adjust cooking times based on the size and type of vegetables you choose to guarantee everything is cooked to perfection.
Hearty Chicken Curry
Hearty Chicken Curry is a delightful dish that brings the warmth of spices and the richness of coconut milk to your dinner table. Using the Ninja Foodi, this recipe takes advantage of both the pressure cooking and sauté functions, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while considerably cutting down on cooking time.
The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic curry spices creates a comforting meal that's perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
This recipe isn't only simple but also incredibly satisfying. By browning the chicken and spices before pressure cooking, you're adding an essential layer of flavor to the curry. Once the pressure cooking is complete, the chicken will be juicy and infused with the delicious curry sauce, making it perfect for serving over rice or alongside warm naan bread.
Prepare to impress your loved ones with this hearty and wholesome dish that's sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of chicken (thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons of curry powder
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 1 inch piece of ginger (minced)
- 2 cups of mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, carrots, and peas)
- 2 tablespoons of oil (for sautéing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or naan (for serving)
To cook the Hearty Chicken Curry, start by setting your Ninja Foodi to the sauté function. Heat the oil and add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, cooking until fragrant and the onion is translucent.
Next, add the chicken pieces and season with curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is lightly browned. Pour in the coconut milk and add the mixed vegetables.
Close the lid and set the Ninja Foodi to pressure cook on high for 10 minutes. Once finished, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
Serve hot over rice or with naan, garnished with fresh cilantro.
For the best results, remember to adjust the spice levels according to your taste preference. You can add more curry powder for extra heat or include a splash of lime juice for brightness before serving.
If you prefer a thicker curry, you can let it simmer on the sauté function for a few extra minutes after pressure cooking. Enjoy experimenting with different vegetables or protein options to customize this dish to your liking!
Easy Pulled Pork
Easy Pulled Pork
Cooking pulled pork in the Ninja Foodi is an absolute game-changer, allowing you to enjoy tender, flavorful meat in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. The pressure cooking function guarantees that the pork shoulder cooks evenly and quickly, rendering it juicy and easy to shred.
By following up with the air crisp function, you can achieve that perfect crispy exterior that makes pulled pork irresistible. This recipe isn't only simple but also versatile, making it a great option for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep for the week ahead.
Serve it on buns with your favorite barbecue sauce, alongside coleslaw, or use it as a topping for nachos or baked potatoes. The possibilities are endless!
Ingredients:
- 4-5 lbs pork shoulder
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Optional: buns for serving, additional barbecue sauce for topping
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder and cutting it into large chunks for easier cooking.
In a bowl, mix the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper, then rub the seasoning mixture all over the pork pieces. Add the seasoned pork to the Ninja Foodi pot along with the chicken broth.
Secure the lid, set the pressure valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before carefully switching to quick release.
After removing the pork, shred it with two forks and mix in the barbecue sauce. Finally, use the air crisp function for 10-15 minutes at 400°F to achieve a crispy finish.
Extra Tips:
For an even richer flavor, consider marinating the pork shoulder overnight in the seasoning mix and a bit of barbecue sauce before cooking.
If you prefer a smokier taste, you can add a few drops of liquid smoke to the broth. Additionally, be sure to keep any leftover pulled pork stored properly in an airtight container; it can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator or can be frozen for future meals.
Enjoy experimenting with different sauces and toppings to customize your pulled pork to your liking!
Savory Chili
Savory chili is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for any occasion, and with the Ninja Foodi, you can whip up a delicious batch in no time. The pressure cooking feature cuts down the cooking time considerably while enhancing the flavors, allowing you to enjoy a rich and savory chili in under 30 minutes.
The process begins with sautéing your ingredients, which helps to build the foundation of flavor before sealing in the goodness through pressure cooking.
Whether you're in the mood for a classic beef chili, a vegetarian option, or a spicy twist, the Ninja Foodi allows for easy customization. You can add your favorite beans, vegetables, and spices to create a dish that suits your taste buds perfectly.
Additionally, this dish is versatile enough for any dietary need, as you can easily adjust the recipe using lean meats or increasing the vegetable content for a healthier option.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions
To cook the chili, start by using the sauté function on your Ninja Foodi. Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic, cooking until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent.
Next, stir in the bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. After the spices are fragrant, add the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
Secure the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release of the pressure, open the lid, and stir the chili to combine all the flavors.
For best results, consider letting the chili sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld even further. If you're looking for a thicker consistency, you can use the sauté function again to simmer the chili for a few more minutes.
Don't hesitate to experiment with different beans, meats, or additional spices to find your perfect combination. Additionally, chili tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers!
Baked Ziti
Baked Ziti is a classic Italian-American comfort food that brings together the hearty flavors of pasta, rich marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses. When prepared in the Ninja Foodi, this dish becomes a quick and easy meal option that can be enjoyed by the whole family in under 30 minutes.
The versatility of the Ninja Foodi allows for a seamless shift from pressure cooking to air frying, guaranteeing that your baked ziti isn't only flavorful but also has that perfect, bubbly cheese topping.
To start, you can customize your baked ziti by choosing your favorite proteins or adding seasonal vegetables to the mix. The sauté function in the Ninja Foodi is ideal for browning ground meat or sautéing vegetables, which improves the complete taste of the dish.
Once you layer your ingredients, the bake/roast setting will provide that classic baked ziti experience, complete with a golden, crispy cheese crust that's hard to resist.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 1 lb ground beef, turkey, or sausage
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
First, set your Ninja Foodi to the sauté function and brown the ground meat until fully cooked, seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Once cooked, remove the meat and set aside. Add the uncooked ziti pasta, marinara sauce, and 2 cups of water to the pot, stirring to combine.
Close the lid and set to pressure cook on high for 5 minutes. Once done, quickly release the pressure and stir in the ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
Layer the cooked meat on top, followed by the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. Switch to the bake/roast function and cook at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Extra Tips:
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for added flavor, such as provolone or gouda.
If you prefer a vegetarian option, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
For a gluten-free version, simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.
Always verify that the pasta isn't overcooked during the pressure cooking step to maintain the ideal texture.
Enjoy your baked ziti fresh from the Ninja Foodi, and consider serving it with a side salad for a complete meal!
Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp
Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp
If you're searching for a quick and delicious meal that satisfies your seafood cravings, search no further than Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp made in the Ninja Foodi. This dish isn't only packed with flavor but can also be prepared in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
By using the pressure cooker function, you can greatly cut down on cooking time while retaining the shrimp's tender texture. The addition of garlic and butter creates a delightful sauce that perfectly complements the shrimp, making every bite a burst of flavor.
To enhance the dish, you can utilize the air fryer function after pressure cooking to achieve a crispy finish on the shrimp. This dual cooking method guarantees that your meal isn't only quick but also has a restaurant-quality appearance and texture.
Plus, the versatility of this recipe allows you to incorporate your favorite vegetables, such as asparagus or bell peppers, transforming it into a complete and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: asparagus or bell peppers, chopped
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by adding the shrimp, butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the Ninja Foodi pot. If you're including vegetables, add them at this stage as well.
Close the lid and set the Ninja Foodi to the pressure cooker function for 2 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure.
Afterward, switch the Ninja Foodi to the air fryer function, set the temperature to 400°F, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to achieve a crispy texture on the shrimp. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Extra Tips:
For best results, verify that the shrimp are of even size to encourage uniform cooking. You can also experiment with different seasonings or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
If you're using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely before cooking to guarantee they cook evenly. Finally, feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and butter according to your taste preferences; this dish is all about customization!
Delicious Banana Bread
Making banana bread in the Ninja Foodi is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic treat with minimal effort. The combination of ripe bananas and simple ingredients results in a moist and fluffy loaf that can be prepared in less than an hour.
The Ninja Foodi's bake function guarantees an even cooking process, yielding a golden crust that's irresistible. Plus, the multi-cooker capabilities allow for creativity with mix-ins, making this recipe versatile and fun.
This recipe is perfect for using up those overripe bananas sitting on your countertop. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious homemade banana bread ready to share (or keep all to yourself!).
Whether you enjoy it plain or with added nuts or chocolate chips, this banana bread is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup melted butter (or vegetable oil)
- Optional mix-ins: ½ cup walnuts or chocolate chips
Cooking Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, melted butter, sugar, and eggs, mixing until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined.
If desired, fold in any optional mix-ins like walnuts or chocolate chips. Pour the batter into a greased baking pan that fits into the Ninja Foodi.
Set the Ninja Foodi to the bake function at 325°F and cook for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor, make sure to use very ripe bananas as they'll be sweeter and provide more moisture to the bread.
If you're short on time, consider using the pressure cooking function; just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly and let the pressure release naturally before checking for doneness.
Additionally, you can experiment with different mix-ins or spices like cinnamon or vanilla extract to customize your banana bread. Enjoy your delicious creation!